HIV

HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. The viral infection (HIV) suppresses a person's immune system. If treated properly, the infection never progresses into Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). 

Self-directed testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is available at Student Health Services (SHS) by scheduling on MyStudentChart. Please visit our website for costs of services based on insurance coverage.

PrEP is pre-exposure prophylaxis. It is used when people who don’t have HIV but may be at risk of getting it through sex or injection drug use, take medicine every day to prevent acquiring the virus. PrEP is most effective when taken daily. 

PEP is post-exposure prophylaxis. It is utilized after possible HIV exposure. Medicines must be started within 72 hours after possible exposure to prevent acquiring infection. PEP is not meant for regular use and should only be used in emergency situations. The sooner PEP is started after a possible HIV exposure, the better. 

Student Health Services can prescribe both PrEP and PEP. Students should call (858) 534-3300 to make an appointment with a primary care provider, contact the Advice Nurse, or go to SHS Urgent Care as this needs to be prescribed within 72 hours of exposure.